Representing a 100-horsepower and 110 lb.-ft. power gain over the normally-aspirated 2007 Jaguar XK is the XKR’s supercharged 4.2-liter V8. With 420 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 413 lb.-ft. of twist at 4,000 rpm, this 32-valve beast with variable valve timing is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission operated via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters or a center-mounted shifter. Power is delivered to the rear 19-inch Jupiter alloy wheels (20-inch Cremona alloys are optional). Three modes are available with the gearbox: Drive, or regular automatic mode; Sport, which keeps the revs up longer and blips the throttle on downshifts; and Manual for times when the driver wants to manage shift points. The all-aluminum body drops 154 pounds from the previous XKR coupe’s curb weight and 220 pounds from the soft-top convertible. Coupled with the potent powertrain, the 2007 Jaguar XKR’s weight loss allows the coupe to reach 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, while the convertible takes a click longer at an even five seconds. Top speed is electronically-limited to 155 mph.

Though impressive, outright speed is only one of the 2007 XKR’s selling points. Others include an updated Computer Active Technology Suspension (CATS) system designed to improve handling, stiffer springs, a more responsive Servotronic steering system, additional rear suspension bracing, and an exhaust system tuned to be quiet around town and which roars upon heavy throttle application. With the added performance come larger and thicker disc brakes accompanied by ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, and hydraulic brake assistance.